Inclusive Support for Every Learner: Our approach to EAL is grounded in the principles of inclusion and differentiation, recognizing that language learning is a journey unique to each student. EAL is part of ISHCMC’s broader Support Services, which also include Learning Support, Challenges & Enrichment, Social-Emotional Counseling, and University Guidance.
Language Programmes and English Support
At ISHCMC, we believe every child deserves the opportunity to learn, thrive, and communicate with confidence. Our Language Support programs ensure that students at all stages of English acquisition - from Early Years through Secondary - are supported to succeed academically and socially.
English as an Additional Language (EAL) at ISHCMC
How EAL Works
- Delivered in close collaboration with classroom teachers.
- Tailored strategies designed for each child’s individual needs.
- Focused on building English proficiency in reading, writing, listening, and speaking – while ensuring students fully access the IB curriculum.
- Embedded in a culture of care, where every student is known, supported, and celebrated.
Through this approach, students not only strengthen their academic English, but also gain the confidence and skills to participate fully in ISHCMC’s diverse and inclusive community.
Intensive English Language Program (IELP, Grades 6–7)
Accelerating English for Academic Success: For highly motivated students with limited academic English who aspire to join ISHCMC’s Secondary School, the Intensive English Language Program (IELP) provides an accelerated pathway.
- Who is IELP for? Students in Grades 6–7 are preparing to transition into an international school environment.
- Program Length: 20-week or 40-week options, with 6 hours of intensive study each day.
- Curriculum: Follows the framework of ISHCMC’s Middle Years Programme (MYP), covering Maths, Science, Humanities, and Language Acquisition, with a strong emphasis on English proficiency.
Key Features of IELP
- Personalized education plans tailored to each learner.
- IB-style, inquiry-based model with innovative language acquisition methods.
- Daily feedback and ongoing assessment to track progress.
- Integration with ISHCMC life through co-curricular activities, drama, music, and athletics.
The Outcome
By the end of IELP, students are equipped with the English skills, academic foundations, and confidence to transition successfully into ISHCMC’s mainstream IB curriculum and beyond.
One Commitment: Empowering Multilingual Learners
Whether through EAL support embedded in every classroom or the intensive IELP pathway, ISHCMC is committed to empowering students to:
- Develop strong English proficiency.
- Access and excel in the IB curriculum.
- Engage confidently with diverse cultures and communities.
- Grow as global citizens, prepared for academic and personal success.
Proof points
- EAL support is embedded into daily teaching — not only through specialists, but through classroom teachers trained in EAL strategies, ensuring students experience seamless language development in all subjects.
- WIDA results show accelerated progress for ISHCMC students, with most achieving benchmarks to transition out of EAL within 2–3 years.
- In the UCL Innovation Fellowship study, ISHCMC EAL students using multimedia reflection (Apple Clips app) achieved MAP Reading growth to the 68th percentile vs. 46th percentile for peers.
Academic Rigor / Outcomes
- ISHCMC is inclusive but still outperforms US national norms by 7–20 points in Math, Reading, and Language Usage (Grades 3–10).
- Grade 10 students exceeded US norms by 20 points in Math (Top 1%) and 12 points in Reading (Top 10%), showing readiness for IB Diploma.
- 57% bilingual IB Diploma achievement – more than double the global average (23%).
- $56M USD in scholarships in 2025 – positioning ISHCMC as one of the leading international schools in Ho Chi Minh City for university outcomes.
Empower Their Future at ISHCMC
Ignite a lifelong passion for learning at ISHCMC. We cultivate curious and empathetic minds, unlocking academic potential and empowering students to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
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